In general, foodborne illnesses are infectious or toxic in nature and caused by bacteria, viruses, or chemical substances entering the body from contaminated food. Chemical contamination can cause acute poisoning or long-term diseases, such as cancer. A few days of diarrhea or vomiting that usually accompany food poisoning may seem inconsequential. But don’t underestimate them, some foodborne illnesses can even lead to long-term disability and death!